Desiree Scott more than just ‘The Destroyer’ for Canada

First impressions can often be deceiving, especially with Canadian midfielder Desiree Scott.

Away from the game, Scott cuts a demure figure, speaking to everybody she comes into contact with as though she’s reconnecting with a long, lost friend. On the field, though, she’s known for her physical and ruthless style of play, highlighted by her fearless tackling ability, her relentless box-to-box pursuit of the ball, and her never-say-die attitude.

Scott, a 34-year-old native of Winnipeg, stands a modest five-foot-three, but don’t let her diminutive size or affable demeanour fool you. For more than 12 years, she has been a whirling dervish on the pitch for the Canadian women’s team, supplying the side with plenty of muscle and steel in the heart of midfield.

Scott hasn’t scored a single goal, and she’s tallied just four assists in 173 appearances for her country. But she’s established herself as one of Canada’s most consistent, reliable and durable performers, playing a key role in helping the team win bronze medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, and gold in Tokyo last summer.